Grace Mattern, Executive Director, New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence

"Unfortunately today we are reminded of the devastating toll that domestic violence is taking in our communities. News of a murder suicide in Penacook is a reminder that we still have a long way to go until we can build a community free of violence and abuse. In 2010, domestic violence accounted for 50% of the state's homicides."

"It is disturbing but not surprising to learn that there were three children in the home at the time of the killing. Each year, an estimated 3.3 million children are exposed to violence against their mothers or female caretakers by family members. In 2010, six-hundred children received services from Coalition programs for experiencing or witnessing physical abuse. 212 children were sheltered by coalition programs that year." 

"The Coalition and our member programs are available to help anyone in an abusive relationship. If you know someone who is being abused let them know that help is available. There are 12 domestic violence agencies in our state that provide a wide array of services, including 24 hour hotline support, emergency shelter, support groups and assistance with the legal system. We urge everyone in New Hampshire to remember that if they hear or see someone being hurt to call 911 immediately and if they or someone they know needs support to call the statewide hotline at 1-866-644-3574."

Please visit the following pages on our website for more information about:
The impact of domestic violence on children
How to help a friend or a family member 
What are the signs of abuse 
How is your relationship, are you at risk?